How To Style A White Shirt: For Male & Female

Key Takeaways

• Whether it’s an oversized white shirt worn with leggings for a relaxed day out or tucked into a pencil skirt for a classic office look, the options are stylish and effortless. Discover even more creative ideas on how to style a white shirt for every occasion by reading the full article. This foundational garment offers unparalleled versatility, making it a valuable addition to any wardrobe.
• For men, a white shirt is the foundation of countless looks, from pairing it with ripped jeans for an edgy vibe to a casual blazer for a sharp, smart-casual outfit. This article by Urban City Styles explains in detail how to wear a white shirt and elevate your style effortlessly, providing practical advice to maximize its potential.

How To Style A White Shirt

What To Avoid With Oversized White Shirt

• Don’t Pair It with Baggy Bottoms: Wearing loose trousers or baggy skirts with an oversized shirt can obscure your silhouette. Opt for fitted options like skinny jeans, leggings, or tailored trousers to maintain a balanced and refined aesthetic. This ensures the oversized white shirt remains a statement piece without overwhelming your frame.
• Avoid Too Many Layers: Excessive layering can make your outfit appear bulky and unstructured. Keep it simple by layering with a single, fitted jacket or adding a belt to define your waist, thereby creating a more streamlined and flattering look.
• Don’t Overdo Accessories: An oversized white shirt naturally draws attention, functioning as a statement piece. Therefore, avoid overly chunky jewelry or bold accessories that might detract from its elegance. A simple necklace, small earrings, or a stylish belt is sufficient to maintain a chic and sophisticated appearance.
• Don’t Leave It Completely Untucked: Allowing the entire shirt to hang loose can create a disheveled impression. Instead, try a French tuck (tucking in only the front portion) or tie the shirt in a knot to introduce structure and a touch of effortless style. This technique helps to define the waist and prevents the outfit from looking shapeless.
• Avoid Wearing It to Formal Events: While versatile, an oversized white shirt is best suited for casual or semi-casual occasions. For more formal settings, consider dressing it up with a belt and tailored trousers or skirts to achieve a sharper, more appropriate look. For truly formal events, a classic fitted white shirt is generally preferred.

How To Style A White Shirt - For Female

Here are some ideas on how to style a white shirt for female:

1. Mix Soft with Tough

To create an eye-catching ensemble, combine your white shirt, particularly one with delicate feminine details like ruffles or a soft collar, with an edgy counterpoint. Consider pairing it with distressed jeans, camo trousers, or khaki bottoms. This minimalist outfit strategy crafts a striking yet wearable look. For a casual feel, roll up your sleeves and unbutton the top one or two buttons. Footwear options are diverse: trainers lend a relaxed, city-ready vibe, while heeled sandals elevate the outfit. Complete the look with a crossbody bag and delicate jewelry for a cohesive finish.

Mix white shirt with jeans

Check out: Blauer - Blauer Women T-Shirt

2. Layer It Like a Light Jacket

Transform your white shirt into a versatile layering piece by wearing it open over a fitted t-shirt or vest top. This simple yet effective styling trick offers a new way to utilize your shirt year-round, and provides a simple outfit solution, much like deciding what to wear with a denim jacket. In warmer weather, opt for a light cotton vest underneath, transitioning to a long-sleeve top as temperatures drop. The white shirt functions as a light jacket or cardigan, adding an extra dimension to your outfit. Experiment with various combinations, such as a plain white shirt over a striped tee for a polished aesthetic, or a bright-colored top to introduce a pop of color. Pair this with your favorite jeans, comfortable trousers, or a casual skirt. The adaptability of this look allows for adjustments throughout the day; simply add trainers and a small bag for an effortless, on-the-go ensemble.

Layering white shirt with light jacket. Source: Walmart

3. Go Oversized 

The oversized white shirt is a prominent trend, offering both comfort and style. For a casual approach, wear it loose over leggings or skinny jeans, achieving a put-together yet relaxed look. To create shape, cinch it with a belt at the waist, or allow it to flow freely for an easy-going vibe. It also serves as an excellent beach cover-up over swimwear. For a lunch outing, consider a French tuck into high-waisted jeans, complemented by sandals. The versatility of an oversized white shirt allows it to adapt to numerous occasions. Remember to balance the loose top with fitted bottoms to maintain a cohesive silhouette.

A roomy, oversized white shirt is trending

4. Layer Under a Short Jumper

For a cozy yet stylish combination, layer your white shirt under a cropped jumper. Allow the bottom of the shirt, along with the collar and cuffs, to peek out from beneath the jumper. This pairing works exceptionally well with jeans or a skirt, easily adaptable with boots or trainers depending on the destination. If your shirt is particularly long, consider tying the front in a loose knot instead of tucking it in. This styling method is perfect for days requiring comfort without compromising on appearance. Accessorize with simple jewelry and a shoulder bag to complete an outfit suitable for shopping, casual lunches, or even relaxed workdays.

Layer your white shirt under a jumper or sweater. Source: Sophie Cameron Davies

5. The Classic Work Look 

For a timeless office outfit, tuck your white shirt into black trousers or a pencil skirt. This simple combination consistently projects a smart and professional image. Ensure your shirt is impeccably ironed for a polished appearance. Experiment with necklines—fully buttoned for a highly professional look, or unbuttoned for a slightly more relaxed feel. Layer with a blazer for important meetings or keep it minimal for everyday work. Black court shoes or smart flats are ideal, and a structured bag will perfectly complete this reliable and effective ensemble.

Work outfit with white shirt can never go out of style. Source: Comercio Limited

6. Weekend Casual 

For relaxed weekends where comfort and style are equally important, pair your white shirt with comfortable blue jeans and white trainers. Roll up the sleeves to the elbows for a more laid-back aesthetic, or tie the front in a knot for a trendy touch. A half-tuck, where only the front portion of the shirt is tucked into the jeans, also works effectively. Accessorize with sunglasses and a casual crossbody bag to complete this versatile look. This ensemble is suitable for shopping, meeting friends for coffee, or even casual evening outings, providing an effortlessly put-together appearance while maximizing comfort. If the weather turns cool, add a denim jacket or cardigan.

White shirts, jeans, and white trainer combo is still a classic, favorable outfit. Source: Emma Hill

How To Style A White Shirt - For Male

White shirts offer numerous styling possibilities for men. Explore these unique ideas on what to wear with a white shirt for men:

1. White Shirt with a Casual Blazer

To elevate a white shirt into a sophisticated smart-casual outfit, pair it with a well-fitted casual blazer. A slim-fit white shirt is recommended to create a sharp silhouette. Select a blazer in a complementary color such as navy, olive, or camel to introduce a sophisticated contrast. For bottoms, tailored trousers in neutral shades or dark jeans offer a modern and versatile foundation. Loafers or brogues seamlessly complete the ensemble, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual business meetings to date nights. For a more relaxed vibe, subtly roll up the shirt sleeves under the blazer and leave the top button of the shirt undone.

White shirt with a blazer is perfect for men to wear on any formal occasion. Source: lifestyle by ps

2. White Shirt with Ripped Jeans

For a casual and slightly edgy ensemble, pair a white shirt with ripped or distressed jeans. A relaxed-fit white shirt with rolled-up sleeves achieves an ideal balance between polished and laid-back. Light blue or black denim with subtle distressing is recommended to ensure the outfit appears purposeful rather than overly rugged. Keep the shirt untucked to maintain a casual aesthetic. Complete the look with white trainers or suede desert boots, and consider adding a leather bracelet or watch to enhance individual style. This white shirt outfit is perfect for informal gatherings or weekend outings.

White shirt with ripped jeans for men

3. White Shirt with Cream Suits

A white shirt combined with a cream suit exudes elegance, making it perfect for summer events or formal daytime occasions. A crisp, tailored white shirt serves as the ideal foundation, with the cream suit adding a soft, neutral sophistication. Ensure the suit is well-fitted, with trousers that sit just above the shoes for a clean finish. Keep accessories minimal: a brown leather belt and matching loafers or brogues integrate seamlessly with the cream tones. For added flair, consider a pocket square in a complementary pastel shade or a slim tie to enhance the outfit’s polished appeal.

For a professional look, mix your white shirt with a cream suit. Source: suitshop.com

4. White Shirt with Tuxedos

The classic pairing of a white shirt with a tuxedo is a timeless choice for formal events. An impeccably fitted white shirt with a structured collar is essential when worn under a tuxedo, preferably with a black or deep-colored jacket. Complete the traditional formal look with a black bow tie and cufflinks. This ensemble should be paired with sleek black trousers and polished leather Oxford shoes. To ensure cohesion, keep the shirt neatly tucked in and opt for minimalistic accessories, allowing the tuxedo and white shirt combination to be the focal point.

White shirt with tuxedos. Source: State & Liberty

5. White Shirt with a Waistcoat

For a dapper and sophisticated appearance, pair a white shirt with a tailored waistcoat. A fitted shirt ensures the outfit remains clean and sharp, while the waistcoat adds an extra layer of elegance. Match the waistcoat to your trousers for a cohesive ensemble, finishing the look with a pair of classic Oxford shoes. This style is ideal for weddings or semi-formal events where a distinguished impression is desired without the formality of a full suit. Experiment with subtle patterns or textures on the waistcoat to add a unique twist.

White shirt with a waistcoat is ideal to express yourself as a gentleman. Source: Suit Direct

6. White Shirt with Chinos

The combination of a white shirt and chinos is a reliable pairing that expertly balances comfort and style. A slim-fit white shirt, neatly tucked into chinos in darker shades such as navy, olive, or brown, creates a sharp appearance. For a more playful touch, consider checkered or striped chinos to introduce variety. Complete the outfit with loafers for a relaxed yet polished look. This combination is perfect for casual office days, brunches, or outdoor gatherings, offering both comfort and sartorial appeal.

Beige chinos are best with white shirt. Source: Pinterest